Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara, or Dashain) 2024 in India

The victory of good over evil is the central theme of the Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara, or Dashain) celebration all over India. There is a religious belief that Lord Rama accompanied by his brother Lakshmana defeated the demon Lord Ravana during a colossal battle.

Festival Traditions

This annual festival involves many customs and traditions as well as large parades and outdoor fairs. There is a special place in the event for burning effigies of Lord Ravana in the evening bonfires. The celebration is always full of dancing and signing, culminating in gorgeous light shows and bonfires. Several ceremonies take place during the festival, including Dashami Tithi, Shravana Nakshatra, Vijay Muhurat, and Aparahna Puja.

All the celebrations can last for up to ten days and include preparations of exceptional food and blessings of work-related and household tools. Primary symbols of Dussehra are paper and wood effigies of King Ravana, bonfires, and red spots painted on peoples' foreheads. The event also serves as a preparation before the Diwali Festival of Lights.

Celebration in Different Regions

There are also some regional differences in celebrations. For example, in Kerala, people focus on education as well. Students worship Goddess Saraswati by wrapping their books and keeping them for two days in front of the idol together with sugarcane, jaggery, and roasted paddy.

In Maharashtra, people visit friends and relatives and exchange gifts. They exchange leaves of the Aapta tree that symbolize gold and supposedly bring prosperity. Maharashtrians also consider the day favorable for new ventures like buying a new house, gadgets, or vehicles.

Dates

The date of Dussehra depends on the lunar calendar, but the holiday usually falls in September and October. This year, the main swing of the celebration is set to take place on October 12. However, the festivities might last up to ten days.